Jamaica may have returned home from the inaugural IRB Junior World Rugby Trophy in Chile a few months ago without a victory, but their experiences are proving an inspiration as the Caribbean nation look to qualify for the 2009 tournament.

Twelve members of the squad who represented Jamaica in their first ever IRB international tournament in the 15-a-side game will be involved in the defence of the NAWIRA [North America West Indies Rugby Association] Under 19 Championship crown in Barbados over the next week.

“It was inspiring and a wonderful tour, a learning experience,” said coach Victor Hyde of the Junior World Rugby Trophy which saw Jamaica lose to Georgia 90-3, Uruguay 82-0, Korea 55-17 and the Cook Islands 54-15 but win many admirers.

“We learned that we have to have the proper infrastructure in place in spite of the limited resources that we have here in Jamaica and the Caribbean. Rugby has improved in several areas with media coverage and more people getting involved.

“The players who were in Chile are certainly inspiring the others.”

Jamaica, who beat Guyana 4-1 in a penalty shootout after the NAWIRA Under 19 final ended 14-14 last year, have been drawn with hosts Barbados and Mexico in Pool A with Guyana, Cayman and Trinidad & Tobago making up Pool B. 

The opening fixtures on Saturday see Jamaica face Barbados and Guyana tackle the Cayman in Bridgetown with further rounds on Monday and Wednesday to determine the matches on finals day on Saturday 12 July.

Hyde and Jamaica will certainly not be underestimating the threat of Mexico – who beat them 3-0 last year – while Trinidad & Tobago will be hoping for a third Caribbean title in as many months after success for their senior men’s and women’s teams.

“All the teams are a big threat to us because everyone would love to be playing at the 2009 IRB Junior World Rugby Trophy,” admitted Hyde.

Match Schedule:

Saturday 5 July:
15:30 – Jamaica v Barbados
17:00 – Guyana v Cayman

Monday 7 July:
15:30 – Guyana v Trinidad & Tobago
17:00 – Jamaica v Mexico

Wednesday 9 July:
15:30 – Cayman v Trinidad & Tobago
17:00 – Barbados v Mexico

Saturday 12 July – Finals Day